From the highs of India's glorious Test win in Perth, the 10-time BGT title champs came crashing down in Adelaide where they were folded in less than two and half days on the back of a thumping 10-wicket defeat. Former Indian Test specialist Cheteshwar Pujara commented on India's recent defeat in Adelaide and highlighted key changes that India must make ahead of their crucial third Test.

Pujara offers two possible solutions to India that can help them stay alive in the ongoing Border Gavaskar Trophy (2024-25) series.  First, the 36-year-old stressed that an underperforming Ravi Ashwin must make way for Washington Sundar who had a sizeable impact in the first Test. And second, he insisted the Indian think tank to retain Harshit Rana for the third Test despite his hot-and-cold show in Adelaide. 

See also: WTC qualification scenarios for top four teams teams

So what's on Pujara's mind?

During his conversation with Star Sports, Pujara presents a visual depiction of what India's potential playing eleven may look like at the start of the third Test. He feels only one change may be necessary and R Ashwin can miss out due to his poor show with the bat in Adelaide. But at the same time, he expresses his support for Rana who failed to deliver an all-round impact with the bat and the ball.

“I feel only one change might happen. Since the batting wasn't good, Washington Sundar can come in place of R Ashwin. Should someone come in place of Harshit Rana? In my opinion, no. You backed him and he performed well in the first match.”

The suggestion to pick Sundar over Ashwin seems justified as Ashwin failed to help himself with the bat when his team needed him and only managed to pick up a sole wicket. Whereas on the contrary, Sundar is comparatively a more astute all-rounder and can come in more than handy with the bat in fairly tricky conditions. He showcased his class with the bat and the ball chipping in with a handy 29 in the second innings and picking 2-48 with the ball to hand India one of their biggest Test wins against Australia.

Rana showed a lot of promise with the ball in the first Test and picked up three crucial wickets in the first innings but failed to live up to the expectations when all eyes turned to the pink-ball Test. He proved to be very erratic with his control and leaked a significant chunk of runs while going completely wicketless.

Moreover, Pujara feels that removing a player after one ordinary performance can lead to a negative impact on a player's physiological health. 

As it stands

India's horror show with the bat has led to the undoing in the second Test. In both innings, team India failed to go past the 200-run mark. Moreover, the form of batting stalwarts such as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli has also been a cause for concern. Apart from their brilliant fightback in Perth which saw them post 487 for the loss of six wickets, India's batting has lacked the edge and the resilience for which it had been so famously renowned for. 

With the series level at 1-1, India needs a win in Brisbane to keep their WTC aspirations alive. At present, the management is currently confronted with challenging choices concerning the selection of the playing eleven.

The Indian Premier League 2025 mega-auction in Jeddah has been nothing short of a sensational two days of intensive hammer sessions, with teams spending massive sums on a plethora of star cricketers. Despite the flash and expenditure of significant money, some other teams conducted their business very sensibly.

A few big-name stars went for a lower price than fans may have expected. Some franchises made good timing decisions and were fortunate to obtain away match-winners at a lower cost than expected. Having said that, here are the top five steal deals from the recent 2025 IPL Mega Auction.

Glenn Maxwell- INR 4.2 Crores (Punjab Kings)

Mighty Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell got a new side in the form of a homecoming with the Punjab Kings (played from 2014 to 2017 and 2020), obtaining a deal for INR 4.20 crore. The 36-year-old was released after three seasons with Royal Challengers Bengaluru and instantly became a target for several teams.

Sunrisers Hyderabad started the bidding battle, followed by Chennai Super Kings until Punjab Kings won the sale at a lower price. PBKS took advantage of an excellent chance to boost its presence abroad for the next season. Maxwell's IPL career encompasses 134 matches and includes 2,771 runs at a strike rate of 156.73 and 37 wickets.

Sam Curran- INR 2.40 Crores (Chennai Super Kings)

Sam Curran is back in yellow; this time, he's a bargain at INR 2.4 crore. Curran's bowling at the death and ability to swing the new ball make him a valuable asset. Add to that his development as a pinch hitter capable of batting higher up the order, and you have the ideal all-rounder.

His flexibility bridges weaknesses in both the batting and bowling areas. Curran's return seems like a masterstroke, whether he's partnering Matheesha Pathirana in slog overs or adding depth to the batting lineup. In 59 IPL appearances for Chennai Super and Punjab Kings, he scored 883 runs and took 58 wickets.

Adam Zampa- INR 2.4 Crores (Sunrisers Hyderabad)

Sunrisers Hyderabad made one of the finest moves of the IPL 2025 auction, signing Australian spinner Adam Zampa for only INR 2.40 crore, which helps fill their spinmeister's void. Following a brief bidding battle with the Rajasthan Royals, the seasoned leg-spinner was unexpectedly bought for nearly his introductory price of INR 2 crore.

His IPL career, which began with Rising Pune Supergiants in 2016, has seen noteworthy performances, including a spectacular 6/19 against his current side, SRH. As his history from spells at RCB and RR suggests, Zampa's arrival at this price range might be the season's best bargain. In his 14-match IPL career, he has 21 wickets at 7.74.

See Also: IPL 2025: Top 5 Shocking Unsold Star Players in the IPL history

Quinton de Kock- INR 3.6 Crores (Kolkata Knight Riders)

The defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders, pulled off a masterstroke by signing South African wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock for only INR 3.60 crore. After the Lucknow Super Giants declined to use their Right to Match (RTM) card, KKR took the chance to improve their team. His probable connection with Sunil Narine at the top of the order will help the team get off to a solid start. 

With his recent international and franchised-based league performances, De Kock can give a vital, robust start to the team's batting. De Kock provides experience, having played 107 IPL matches and scored 3,157 runs, including 23 half-centuries and two centuries.  

Washington Sundar- INR 3.2 Crores (Gujarat Titans)

Washington Sundar was among the most remarkable Indian all-rounders at the auction, and many expected him to sell for a high price. However, he eventually signed with the Gujarat Titans for INR 3.20 crores. GT defeated Lucknow Super Giants in a bidding battle to gain his contract. 

He is a wily off-spinner who has recently been in excellent form. Sundar has played 60 IPL matches and taken 37 wickets at an economy rate of 7.54. He has also scored 378 runs with a strike rate of more than 116, which might help the Titans' lower middle-order batting lineup.

Chennai Super Kings is one such franchise that has enhanced the fame and definition of the Indian Premier League. Being a five-time champions side helmed under the captain cool, MS Dhoni, the Super Kings are prominent for the gameplay and their humongous fanbase. But, they had a forgettable 2024 stint, as they had closely missed qualifying for the playoffs, citing significant issues regarding players' inconsistency and the injury of leading campaigners.

But, with the Mega Auction coming ahead, the Yellove army will get a chance to restructure their team and plan for the long term, as a few of them from the roster will likely play their last in the times ahead. Based on the released retention list and voids present on the side, here is a list of the five players that Chennai Super Kings should try for in the coming 2025 IPL Mega Auction

Rishabh Pant

Rishabh Pant should be on the team's player acquisition plans' significant target list. The primary reason behind this would be evident amongst several cricket fanatics. With Mahendra Singh Dhoni possibly playing his last IPL after his cornerstone contributions to the cricketing world, Chennai Super Kings would be eager to acquire the services of an emerging wicketkeeper batter.

Since his IPL inception, Pant has been part of Delhi Capitals for over seven editions, implying his pivotal impact creation for his roster. But, with him parting ways from his career shuttler, it will be intriguing to see if Rishabh Pant would be a part of a team with his idol. After making a stellar comeback from a life-threatening injury, he has made 446 runs in 13 matches, averaging over 41. 

Ravichandran Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin has been one of the cornerstones of the Indian spinners ecosystem. But, before making a mark on the International cricket space, Ashwin was a part of the Yellow squad since its inception. He evolved as one of the best spinmeisters across all game formats, especially in the red-ball format.

Though Ashwin has played for four teams, Rajasthan Royals being the recent one, his consistency and intent must be the major USP. Also, with his recent dominance as one of the best bowlers in test cricket, the local boy wouldn't mind returning to the side that has given him all. The Super Kings will target to have an experienced spinner, and he can prove to be their best option. In the previous edition, he had scalped nine wickets in 15 matches at an economy of eight. 

Washington Sundar

Washington Sundar would be one of the players under the Super Kings auction management's auction radar, thanks to his impeccable performance in their recent whitewash campaign by New Zealand, where his spinning efforts went in vain. Many fanatics would vividly remember his batting contributions in the nick of time during the previous 2022 Border-Gavasker Trophy down under.

Sundar, who played for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2024, was not retained by his franchise and will be auctioned off. With Chennai retaining Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dube ahead of the auction, another all-rounder could do them good. With the side requiring a long-term emerging spinner, Sundar can cater to those needs, and his local roots act as the cherry on top. In 2024, he didn't get a chance to display his calibre and scalped just one wicket in two appearances. 

Also Read: IPL 2025: Top 5 Best Retentions during the 2025 IPL Mega Auction

Devon Conway

Devon Conway is seen to be one of the players that the five-time winners may exercise their Right-to-Match (RTM) option or pay big for in the mega auction. The group is recognised for its stability and consistency and has placed a high faith level in its overseas players, with Devon Conway has maintained that tradition.

He missed the IPL 2024 season with a thumb injury, and his absence contributed to the franchise's failure to qualify for the playoffs. The Southern side should be eager to get him back into the auction. In his memorable 2023 stint, he has made a colossal 672 runs in 16 matches, averaging over 49.

Rachin Ravindran

Rachin Ravindra is currently one of the intriguing and emerging stars in world cricket, and he's mainly performed brilliantly in the Indian sub-continent, with his recent performance in the clean sweep India test series and the 2023 World Cup.

A calm demeanour, 24 years of age, a match-winner with the bat, and a handy spinner – all elements of Rachin Ravindra are perfect for the team to acquire him for long-term purposes. Though he had a shaky start in his first IPL appearance, his calibre signifies promise, which the Chennai Super Kings highly need. In 2024, he has made just 220 runs in ten matches, but it will be a terrain of a task for the side as many sides are willing to bid for him in the forthcoming Mega Auction.

After a day of gripping cricket, New Zealand managed to edge ahead with a lead of 149 runs as India struggled to rein in Mitchell and Young’s strong batting performance. Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja led India’s bowling with impactful spells, but New Zealand’s middle-order resilience put them in the driver’s seat.

Early success for Indian bowlers as Sundar and Jadeja shine

India struck early, with Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja picking up key wickets to put New Zealand on the back foot. Sundar bowled beautifully, dismissing New Zealand's Tom Latham for 28, his delivery drifting in and breaking past the outside edge to uproot Latham’s off-stump. Ravindra Jadeja, meanwhile, kept things tight from the other end and managed to bag a five-wicket haul, delivering a masterclass of spin on the lively pitch.

Despite India’s early gains, New Zealand’s Mitchell and Young resisted with patience and precision. Young struck a composed 71 before Jadeja claimed his wicket with a well-placed delivery that found its way to Rohit Sharma at slip. Mitchell, however, was the standout performer, posting a gritty 82 with some well-timed boundaries and towering sixes, making India’s bowlers toil for every wicket.

See Also: Fans criticize Kohli’s focus after quick run-out in Mumbai Test

New Zealand's middle-order resilience secure the lead

Daryl Mitchell's steadfast approach paid off, even as wickets fell around him. His powerful hitting displayed both control and aggression, including a massive six off Sundar that reached the top tier, thrilling fans and teammates alike. He and Will Young’s partnership added crucial runs, pushing New Zealand’s total to 235 before Sundar managed a final breakthrough, claiming Ajaz Patel’s wicket after he misjudged a drifting delivery that struck him plumb in front.

While Sundar and Jadeja dominated the wicket tally, India’s bowlers had little answer to New Zealand’s composed middle-order play. Jadeja’s fifth wicket of the innings, however, gave India a glimmer of hope as he bowled Matt Henry with a delivery that spun away sharply. New Zealand eventually closed the innings at 235, leaving India with a deficit of 149 runs to overcome as they prepare for Day 2.

On the opening day of the third Test at the Wankhede Stadium, New Zealand’s Will Young fought back valiantly after an early setback against India’s disciplined spin attack. Opting to bat, New Zealand faced some early struggles as Washington Sundar’s incisive spell claimed two quick wickets. However, Young’s gritty innings kept the visitors in the contest as he notched up a well-deserved fifty, taking New Zealand to 130/3 by the second session.

Sundar’s spell brings India back into the game

After New Zealand lost Devon Conway early to Akash Deep, the visitors found a brief reprieve with a 44-run stand between Tom Latham and Will Young. But Washington Sundar’s entrance turned the tables for India. With his flight and drift troubling the New Zealand batters, Sundar struck a decisive blow by dismissing Latham, who misjudged the line and had his stumps rattled. The off-spinner continued his spell of dominance, delivering another similar beauty to bowl Rachin Ravindra, who was left shaking his head as he walked off. Sundar’s 2-26 provided India with critical breakthroughs, keeping the game evenly poised.

See Also: IPL 2025: Players retained by each team; Retention rules explained

Will Young’s gritty fifty rescues New Zealand

Despite the setbacks, Young displayed resilience and continued to score freely when opportunities arose. As the Indian spinners began to find more grip off the pitch, Young reached his fifty with a commanding six straight down the ground, showcasing his confidence and determination. Alongside Daryl Mitchell, he ensured New Zealand avoided further damage, with the pair steadying the innings through the growing turn and bounce on offer. At 60 off 115 deliveries, Young’s innings was a testament to his focus and skill, as he faced down India’s spinners and kept New Zealand in the fight.

As the second session progresses, the Wankhede surface is starting to offer more assistance to the spinners, which could make batting even more challenging for New Zealand. Ravindra Jadeja has already shown signs of turn, and the Indian bowlers will look to capitalize on the conditions to keep the pressure on the visiting side.

In a gripping day's play at Pune, New Zealand's decision to bat first on a turning track seemed to hold promise early on, but India clawed their way back into the contest thanks to Washington Sundar’s magical spell. The Black Caps, led by Tom Latham, started on the front foot with solid contributions from their top five batters. Devon Conway (76) and Rachin Ravindra (65) played pivotal roles, building crucial partnerships of 62 and 59 runs, respectively, with the likes of Will Young and Daryl Mitchell chipping in. The visitors appeared in control with two fifty-plus stands, and India had to be patient during these passages of play.

However, the match turned sharply in India's favor after Tea when Washington Sundar was reintroduced into the attack. Ravichandran Ashwin (3/64) had already done the early damage, surpassing Nathan Lyon on the all-time wicket-takers list with three crucial strikes. But it was Sundar's brilliance that dismantled the Kiwis' middle and lower order. Sundar’s career-best figures of 7/59 stunned New Zealand, who went from a promising position to being bowled out for 259 in just 79.1 overs. His relentless off-spin left the visitors clueless, as the Tamil Nadu spinner ripped through the lineup, ensuring that India ended the day in a balanced position despite New Zealand's early control.

See Also:  Kagiso Rabada Joins the Elite 300-Wicket Club in Test Cricket

Washington Sundar's Wickets contact points 

Washington Sundar delivered a stellar performance in the Test match against New Zealand, marking his return to the longest format of the game with a memorable 10-wicket haul. His spell not only highlighted his skill but also showcased his tactical brilliance on a pitch that favored turn. After a patient start by the New Zealand batters, Sundar unleashed a flurry of deliveries that left them clueless. His combination of sharp turn and precise lengths made it difficult for the visitors to settle, despite their promising start.

New Zealand, having won the toss and opted to bat on a turning track, looked comfortable initially with Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra contributing half-centuries. The two built partnerships that kept the Kiwis in a strong position. However, as soon as Washington Sundar was brought into the attack, things shifted dramatically. His relentless pressure, combined with Ravichandran Ashwin's early strikes, set up the perfect stage for Sundar to run through the middle and lower order of New Zealand.

Sundar's 10-wicket haul, highlighted by his ability to exploit the conditions perfectly, saw him claim wickets through a mix of bowled, caught, and LBW dismissals. As the image analysis shows, his wickets came from a variety of deliveries, each targeting different parts of the stumps and around the crease. His precision in dismissing the batters reflected his mastery of line and length. The variation in his deliveries—whether turning away or sliding through—was key to confusing the New Zealand batters.

The graphic further underlines how Sundar's accuracy paid off. The contact points of the dismissals show that Sundar was able to consistently target the stumps, forcing mistakes and either bowling batters or trapping them leg-before-wicket. His control over his deliveries ensured that New Zealand’s lower order had no answer to his spin, and they crumbled in quick succession after appearing well set earlier in the day.

This performance by Sundar marks not just a personal milestone with career-best figures but also highlights his growing stature in India’s Test setup. His ability to control the game in crucial moments, especially on turning tracks, could make him an indispensable asset in future home series. For now, this match will be remembered as the one where Sundar made a statement, announcing his return in the grandest fashion.

See Also: Does constant role change affect KL Rahul’s batting performance?

Indian off-spinner Washington Sundar picks up his career-best figures of 7-59 to bundle out New Zealand on 259 on Day 1 of the 2nd Test. He made his comeback into the test side after 3 years and bowled a best spell for the hosts. His first wicket was the in-form NZ All-Rounder Rachin Ravindra who was the Player of the Match in 1st Test as well. Sundar bowling around the wicket drifted on off and the ball turned sharply.

Sundar then picked up the wicket of NZ wicketkeeper Tom Blundell and restricted visitors to 201-5 at the Tea. After Tea, he cleaned up Daryl Mitchell with a LBW claiming his 3rd scalp. Tim Southee, who scored 65(73) in the First Test, scored only 5(8) today and was the 5th scalp for Sundar today. Sundar later picked up wickets of Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner and claimed his career-best figures of 7 for 59 in 23.1 overs. Washington Sundar's Test Bowling average before the Pune test was 49.83 and now after claiming 7/59 his bowling average is 27.53.

Veteran India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is reportedly uncertain for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 which is slated to take place in Pakistan. The veteran all-rounder will need to prove himself in domestic cricket first, where he has to bowl 10 overs consistently as well.

Washington Sundar to replace Hardik Pandya?

According to a report by Indian Express, Hardik Pandya is uncertain in the ODI squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 as well. He will have to prove himself in the domestic circuit and then a call will be taken as well. By then, India are looking at Washington Sundar and Axar Patel as their all-rounders in the squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 since the tournament will take place in subcontinent conditions as well. The report also stated that the management is also looking at young pace bowling all-rounder Nitish Reddy as well.

However, Hardik Pandya will miss the upcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka which is all set to start from August 2. However, he will play in the T20I where Suryakumar Yadav will lead the team in Sri Lanka as well. Hardik who was Rohit Sharma’s deputy in the T20 World Cup will play in the series as a player as Shubman Gill has been appointed as Suryakumay Yadav’s deputy in T20Is as well.

SEE ALSO: Rohit Sharma comments on his retirement plans after quitting T20Is

On the other hand, the upcoming series against Sri Lanka will be the first assignment for newly appointed India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir who took over the reins from Rahul Dravid. However, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will take part in the ODIs where Rohit made a comeback in the ODI series to lead India, which will be his first ODI clash after India lost the ODI World Cup final against Australia at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Apart from Rohit and Virat Kohli, all-rounder Shivam Dube has also been added to the squad as Hardik Pandya’s replacement as well. Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer who lost his central contract after the ODI World Cup has also made a comeback in the ODI squad as well.

India Squads for Sri Lanka tour

T20I Squad: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Ꮪhubman Gill (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh, Riyan Parag, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Mohd. Siraj.

ODI Squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Ꮪhubman Gill (VC), Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (WK), Rishabh Pant (WK), Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Riyan Parag, Axar Patel, Khaleel Ahmed, Harshit Rana.

India’s rising stars Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill made big jumps in the ICC T20I rankings after their impressive performances on the Zimbabwe tour. Jaiswal moved up four spots to reach 6th place with 743 points, just behind Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam. Travis Head stayed at the top of the rankings, with Suryakumar Yadav and England’s Phil Salt tied for second with 797 points each.

Shubman Gill, who captained India for the series, climbed a remarkable 36 places to secure the 37th spot. This made him the fourth highest ranked Indian in T20I, ahead of Rohit Sharma (42nd) and Virat Kohli (51st), who recently retired from T20I cricket. Gill now trails only Suryakumar Yadav (2nd), Jaiswal (6th), and Ruturaj Gaikwad (8th) among Indian batters.

Jaiswal and Gill shine in ICC T20I rankings

Gill and Jaiswal seized their opportunities, emerging as top run scorers in the series. Gill was the leading run scorer with 170 runs in five matches, boasting a strike rate of 125.93 and an average of 42.50.

Impressive performances on the Zimbabwe tour

After missing the first two T20Is, Jaiswal made a splash with an unbeaten 93 in the fourth T20I, scoring a total of 141 runs in three matches at an average of 70.50 and an impressive strike rate of 165.88. Their contributions helped India win the five match series against Zimbabwe 4-1.

Zimbabwe’s Blessing Muzarabani also saw a rise, moving up 11 places to 44th in the T20I bowlers rankings. Meanwhile, Washington Sundar climbed 36 spots to 46th, and Mukesh Kumar moved up 21 places to 73rd.

England’s Adil Rashid remained the top ranked T20I bowler, while Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza rise to third in the all-rounders rankings after his strong performances against India.

Following the T20I retirements of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja, the Indian cricket team has begun its search to replace these key players. Kohli, Rohit, and Jadeja have been integral to the Indian setup across formats for over a decade. However, after bidding adieu to T20Is following the T20 World Cup final last month, the team now faces the challenge of filling the void left by these cricketing legends.

Washington Sundar’s prospects as Jadeja’s replacement

While finding replacements for Kohli and Rohit is a daunting task, the gap left by Jadeja might be an even bigger headache for India, given his reliability with both bat and ball. Axar Patel is a strong contender to take on Jadeja’s role, but Washington Sundar is also in the running. Currently touring Zimbabwe, Sundar was asked if he is ready to step into Jadeja’s shoes.

In the recent match against Zimbabwe, Sundar delivered an impressive performance, taking 3/15 as India secured a win to lead the five-match series 2-1 in Harare.

Sundar said “I need to do well where I am good at and what I am capable of, especially with my preparation. I need to give my 100 per cent every single day. That’s something that I have not compromised on.”

“It (preparing well) keeps me in the present and obviously I am very confident as well (about his skills). It’s a great opportunity for me to play for India, and I am blessed with it. I need to keep my job consistently and keep preparing and keep getting better. That way everything will be taken care of,” he added.

Match recap: India vs. Zimbabwe

India opted to bat first in the match. A solid 67-run partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal (36 off 27 balls, with four boundaries and two sixes) and skipper Shubman Gill got things off to a strong start. Shubman continued his fine form, scoring 66 off 49 balls (with seven fours and three sixes) and forming a 72-run partnership with Ruturaj Gaikwad (49 off 28 balls, with four boundaries and three sixes). India posted a competitive total of 182/4 in their 20 overs.

In response, Zimbabwe struggled early in their run chase, finding themselves at 39/5. A 77-run partnership between Dion Myers (65* off 49 balls, with seven fours and a six) and Clive Madande (37 off 26 balls, with two fours and two sixes) revived their innings. However, Indian bowlers regained control, restricting Zimbabwe to 159/6 by the end of their 20 overs.

See Also: Unbeaten James Anderson in final Test; Record extended – Cricket Winner

The Indian team’s search for suitable replacements continues, with Sundar and Patel leading the charge to fill the all-rounder role left vacant by Jadeja.